Construction Industry Faces Labor Shortage CONEXPO Reports

Imagine the construction sites of the future. Will they be dominated by high-tech autonomous machinery, or will they still rely on skilled workers? The labor shortage has become a pressing issue for the construction equipment industry, hanging over its future like the sword of Damocles. Recently, the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) and CONEXPO-CON/AGG released a significant video featuring Rod Bull, CEO of Komatsu North America, who shared candid insights into the industry’s workforce challenges and potential solutions.

In the video, Rod Bull emphasized that labor shortages are no longer a temporary problem but a "new normal" that demands serious attention. This shortage not only disrupts daily operations but also threatens innovation and growth across the industry. Without enough skilled workers to operate and maintain advanced machinery, even the most cutting-edge technology remains theoretical.

What lies at the root of this labor shortage? Bull pointed to outdated perceptions of the construction equipment sector. Many people, particularly younger generations, view the industry as dirty, physically demanding, and lacking career prospects. These stereotypes have put the industry at a disadvantage in the competition for talent, making it difficult to attract new workers.

As one of the world’s premier trade shows for construction equipment, CONEXPO-CON/AGG is more than just a platform for showcasing the latest technology—it also plays a pivotal role in addressing industry-wide challenges. By releasing this video, AEM and CONEXPO-CON/AGG aim to spark a broader conversation about labor shortages and encourage collaborative problem-solving.

CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 will continue to prioritize workforce development, hosting forums, workshops, and training sessions to facilitate knowledge-sharing. Industry experts from around the globe will gather to discuss best practices for attracting, training, and retaining talent, ensuring the sector’s long-term sustainability.

• Rebranding the Industry: Komatsu actively participates in outreach campaigns, leveraging social media and campus recruitment to showcase the industry’s evolving nature. The company emphasizes how technology has transformed construction into a safer, more dynamic field with ample career opportunities.
• Investing in Training: Komatsu partners with vocational schools to develop industry-aligned training programs, providing hands-on experience for students. The company also offers ongoing upskilling for employees to keep pace with technological advancements.
• Improving Workplace Conditions: Komatsu prioritizes employee well-being by fostering safe, inclusive work environments and offering competitive compensation and benefits.
• Promoting Diversity: The company actively encourages women and minority groups to join the industry, recognizing that diverse teams drive innovation and resilience.

• Government Support: Policymakers must increase funding for vocational education and enact legislation that supports workforce development.
• Corporate Responsibility: Companies should collaborate with schools to offer internships and apprenticeships while fostering employee growth and retention.
• Educational Reform: Schools must adapt curricula to meet industry needs, emphasizing practical skills and staying attuned to technological trends.
• Industry Collaboration: Trade associations should facilitate knowledge exchange, establish standards, and advocate for systemic change.

Beyond these measures, technological innovation will play a crucial role in alleviating labor shortages. Automation and AI are making equipment easier to operate and maintain, reducing reliance on manual labor.

For instance, remote-control technology allows operators to manage machinery from a distance, while AI-powered diagnostics help technicians resolve issues more efficiently. Companies must embrace these advancements, invest in R&D, and equip workers with digital skills to thrive in this evolving landscape.

The construction equipment industry’s labor challenges present both a crisis and an opportunity. By confronting these issues proactively, the sector can transform adversity into progress. CONEXPO-CON/AGG will continue to serve as a platform for collaboration, driving sustainable growth and ensuring a vibrant future for the industry.